Cabe, This is an interesting issue that will obviously continue to expand with the use of the Internet, and the ability to collect more information than ever before. Will be interesting to see how much backlash and how strong the reaction develops among consumers over time.

Cabe, companies are doing lots of data gathering and analysis for formalizing various marketing strategies. But whether it's against individual privacy or not is a big issue, which has to be questionable in consumer courts.

I think some of this technology does walk a fine line. I understand demographics are a necessary part of target campaigns and the like but sometimes it does creep me out to think some company knows a bit more about my likes and habits then I would like them to. But I suppose the Internet is a public place, which is why I know some people who are extremely careful about what they share. And as an avid and prolific Facebook users, I feel a bit hypocritical complaining about privacy, since I do share quite a bit with that website, and realize it's being used for data mining.

Apresher, the unfortunate truth is that nothing will be allowed to stand in the way of the quest for profit. GREED will assure that any laws intended to protect privacy are inadequate. Note that I do NOT believe that it is right, only that it is what I see happening.

I personally think that advertisers should use this data gathering to the max according to my likes and dislikes. I certainly do not like to see advertisements that does not interest me. For example I see alot of adds about diets, physical exercise, food etc. around my facebook home when I am physically fit and naturally love fruits and vegetables. On the other hand I rarely see ads on innovative technologies unless I search and research these. Concerning Privacy, if you want privacy then do not have profiles (esp. social media) period.

The face recognition and such items in Minority Report certainly relate to this article, bu the more I see these types of advances in technology and think of the continued advancement/acceptance/placement of these devices the more it reminds of George Orwell's 1984. A game system that can record and report your activities without your consent or knowlege? Big Brother is watching.

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